Nearly half of all children ages six to 11 years old has a dental cavity. Adolescents tend to be more likely to incur cavities because they consume so many sugary treats and often skip vital parts of their dental routine. At Family First Dental in Anchorage, AK, the friendly emergency dentists help kids get the facts and care they need for a lifetime of excellent oral health. To ensure your child preserves their pearly whites, implement the following tips.

3 Ways Kids Can Avoid Emergency Dentist Visits

1. Eat Well

Foods like cookies, candy, and soda produce acids in the mouth that create decay-causing bacteria. Though it’s okay to enjoy an occasional sweet treat, limit the number of sugary, starchy, and processed foods in the house. Encourage adolescents to munch on fresh veggies and fruits instead. Nuts and cheese are also teeth-friendly snacks. If your child has braces, keep sticky and hard foods at bay.

2. Pack Overnight Bags

During the summer months, children tend to have more overnight trips, like camping and sleeping over at friends’ houses. When away from home, it becomes easier to neglect their oral care—especially if your child forgets to pack the essentials. Always ensure their bag contains a toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste. 

3. Wear a Mouthguard

From skateboarding to softball, adolescents partake in many exciting outdoor activities during the summer months. Unfortunately, even noncontact sports can lead to serious oral injuries. Avoid a trip to the emergency dentist by equipping your child with a custom-fit mouthguard. The American Dental Association recommends using a mouthguard in a range of sports, including basketball and gymnastics.

In addition to their daily oral health regimen, it’s vital to schedule your child’s annual teeth cleaning and checkup. For the personalized care they deserve, head to Family First Dentistry in Anchorage. The professionals help patients of all ages feel welcomed and work to ensure visits are as fast and easy as possible. To learn more about these general and emergency dentists, visit the website. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call today at (907) 562-2820.